British Jews' Board Members Criticize Israeli Government's Actions in Gaza War

Members from the Board of Deputies, which is the largest representative organization for British Jews, have declared that they can no longer remain silent regarding the war in Gaza. In a notable shift from their ongoing support for the Israeli government, a group of 36 members released an open letter in the Financial Times expressing deep concerns about Israel's actions, stating that “Israel’s soul is being ripped out.”

Since the conflict escalated following the terrorist attacks by Hamas on October 7, 2023, the Board has generally backed the Israeli government. However, this recent letter—signed by about twelve percent of the board's membership—highlights their disapproval of the government's recent conduct. The letter notes the temptation to ignore the distressing situation but underscores that their Jewish values compel them to act and voice their concerns.

The letter discusses the renewed violence after a brief ceasefire that was intended to facilitate the release of hostages from Gaza, which was ultimately broken by the Israeli government. It goes on to outline the grievous humanitarian toll, with casualties rising among Palestinians and critical supplies being obstructed from entering Gaza; this situation underscores a return to a violent conflict that has seen paramedics killed and buried in mass graves. The authors lament the diminishing hopes for peaceful reconciliation alongside the plight of hostages still in captivity.

Moreover, they argue that the current Israeli administration is promoting violence against Palestinians and exacerbating conditions that are detrimental to the Palestinian economy while aggressively expanding settlements. They fear for Israel's future under what they describe as its most extremist government. The letter asserts that inaction could be interpreted as tacit approval of the government's strategies, reinforcing their statement of solidarity with those Israelis protesting against the return to hostilities.

Philip Goldenberg, one of the signatories, remarked on how the Israeli government appeared to mimic the divisive strategies employed by former U.S. President Trump. Goldenberg pointed out the spectrum of opinions within the British Jewish community, noting that while some may oppose such public criticism, others share the sentiment of the letter yet feel hesitant to voice their stance.

He further argued that the actions observed in Gaza are a profound violation of Jewish ethical principles, claiming that the harm inflicted upon the Israeli cause by Netanyahu's policies surpasses any damage caused by Hamas. In response, a spokesperson for the Board of Deputies acknowledged that other members might stress Hamas's critical role in the conflict while emphasizing the unity among Jewish voices advocating for the release of hostages, humanitarian aid for Gaza, and a sustainable path to peace for both Israelis and Palestinians.